The Ohio State Highway Patrol announced Thursday that troopers will conduct an OVI checkpoint in Ross County on Friday evening, August 14, 2026.
The operation is funded by federal grant funds and is intended to deter and intercept impaired drivers. Exact location details will be released the morning of August 14.
Lieutenant Aaron Morgan, commander of the Chillicothe Post, stated: “Based on provisional data, there were 540 OVI-related fatal crashes in which 593 people were killed last year in Ohio. State troopers make on average 15,700 OVI arrests each year in an attempt to combat these dangerous drivers. OVI checkpoints are designed to not only deter impaired driving but to proactively remove these dangerous drivers from our roadways.”
OSHP confirmed the Ross County checkpoint as part of a broader set of operations planned for the same evening in several counties. These efforts typically occur alongside saturation patrols in nearby areas.
Officials routinely urge motorists who plan to consume alcohol or other impairing substances to designate a sober driver, use rideshare or public transportation, or arrange alternative travel in advance. Anyone who observes an impaired or reckless driver is encouraged to call #677 to reach the nearest Ohio State Highway Patrol post.
OVI checkpoints in Ohio follow established procedures that include advance public notice, predetermined neutral selection of vehicles, visible signage, and safety measures. These practices help ensure the stops remain brief and consistent with legal requirements aimed at reducing impaired driving on public roadways.
Drivers in Ross County and surrounding areas should plan for possible brief delays Friday evening and prioritize sober transportation options. Further details on the precise site will be available Friday morning from the Ohio State Highway Patrol.
